I'm unapologetic about being myself | Vidya Balan

Mumbai: Bollywood star Vidya Balan wants to improve her vocabulary, on the one hand, to express her feelings towards the success of 'The Dirty Picture'. On the other, she is looking forward to a break and says post that she will do some "dirty dancing".

After working non-stop for more than two years, she now wants to take a break.

"I am close to saying yes to a film which will not start for another three months. So I really think I need that break because for the past two-and-a-half-years I have been busy with my films. So now I do need that time off to soak everything in. Then I will probably do some dirty dancing," the 33-year-old talented actor told IANS.

An unofficial biopic of southern sex siren Silk Smitha, 'The Dirty Picture' saw Vidya shedding all inhibitions to get under the skin of the character and said: "I have become unapologetic about being myself. Probably others think that I don't breathe the same air (laughs). I just take that as a compliment, but I have a long way to go but yes god has been kind."

"I was hoping the film would do well, but I had no idea that the film would do so well. I feel blessed and I am looking for new words for blessed, humbled and overwhelmed."

Unwilling to get typecast or repeat same roles, Vidya will soon be seen stepping out of the sex icon image by playing a pregnant woman in director Sujoy Ghosh's 'Kahaani', a thriller that will show what all her character goes through when she flies down to Kolkata to find her missing husband.

"I can't do the same thing again and again. When I am getting variety, then why will I not take that advantage? This woman (in 'Kahaani') is a vulnerable woman who is searching for her husband, but she has not lost her sense of humour. She is a woman of today."

Vidya has been extremely choosy with scripts, but clarifies that it doesn't mean she is narrowing down her options.

"The proposition of success has been humongous, thankfully. But even after 'Paa', 'Ishqiya' and 'No One Killed Jessica', people said what next? Are your options narrowing down? I don't think about these things. If god has brought me so far, he will take me further.

"I am here to act. I am not saying I will do only solo heroine projects or like that. I want to do different genres of films," she said.

Ghosh was shouldering the burden of two flops - 'Aladin' and 'Home Delivery' - when he approached Vidya, but she was not sceptical about the director and took the plunge.

"When Balki came to me with 'Paa', I had a 'Kismat Konnection' and 'Heyy Babyy' behind me. And when Sujoy came to me, my films were doing well. But he is an intelligent man he is one of the most intelligent men I have met. Two of his films didn't work, but he has put things together this time around. I am hoping it will work out. But I think the intention is right," she said.

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Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya all set to be a hit

Mumbai: After a dull last week, the new releases didn't register great numbers at the ticket windows either. The opening of both the latest films, Jodi Breakers and Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya were dull, say tradesmiths, adding that neither will make any profit from the theatrical run.

The Riteish Deshmukh-Genelia D'Souza rom-com opened with Rs 1.75 crore on Friday. And despite picking up on Saturday-Sunday to take the three-day total to Rs 7.5 crore, trade expert Komal Nahta wrote on his website, 'The overall figures were on the lower side.'

Fortunately, the producers, TIPS have sold the film to UTV, which in turn sold it to some of the territories. "So for them, TNLHG is not a losing proposition," reiterates Nahta.

In the same vein, veteran trade analyst Amod Mehra adds that the other distributors and sub-distributors who bought the subsequent rights, will not make money. Pegging the cost of Jodi Breakers at Rs 25 crore, including prints and advertising, and TNLHG at Rs 20 crore, Mehra feels the Madhavan-Bipasha Basu starrer will be the bigger loser at the box office.

"The reason being that the makers have neither sold the territories nor the satellite rights. So they stand to lose about Rs 10-12 crore on their total investment," he says, adding that the distributors and sub-distributors won't make money on TNLHG either.

A distributor on condition of anonymity points out that the movie didn't deliver what it promised to, and it wasn't all that it was being projected as. "To a major extent, the two films ate into each other's businesses. I think they suffered more due to their clash at the box office," says a distributor from Delhi.

He further added, "Maybe if the two films had released solo, they would have got some respectable numbers. Economically, both are making losses."

Though both the films registered their presence with promotions on satellite television, and print and outdoor advertising, Girish Wankhede, the representative of a multiplex, feels the pitch to market the movies to the public seemed to be way off the mark.

"Despite the visibility, they marketing didn't engage the audience, and consequently, a proper perception of the movies couldn't be built up. That's why they registered such low occupancy in the first three days," he sums up.

The situation was not much different for the Hollywood imports like Moneyball, The Artist, Carnage and My Week With Marilyn.

Fortunately for The Artist, the occupancy increased slightly on Sunday, points out Wankhede. And now that the film has won the Oscar for Best Film, Best Director and Best Actor, Mehra hopes the film will register decent numbers for the rest of the week.

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John Abraham in an LTTE Film 'Jaffna'

Mumbai: Just when one thought John Abraham has left behind his experimental phase of 'No Smoking' and 'Kabul Express', the actor has agreed to work in 'Jaffna', a political thriller about LTTE's activities in Sri Lanka.

The film will be directed by Shoojit Sircar, who has just wrapped up the shooting of 'Vicky Donor', which is his breezy satire on sperm donation, featuring veejay Ayushmaan in the lead. And John has co-produced the film.

"John is a politically aware actor. He reads the newspaper every morning, knows what's going on in the world. He is clued in to the dynamics of the separatist strife in Sri Lanka. The minute I told him about my film 'Jaffna', he was on board," said Sircar.

John will produce 'Jaffna' as well.

Not willing to divulge too many details at the moment, Sircar says it's a political thriller set in the troubled violence-ridden city of Jaffna.

John would be in and out of Sri Lanka in the coming months to get a hang of the political situation in the pretty little country.

"I am no stranger to themes of separatism and extremist violence. My first film 'Yahaan' was about Kashmiri separatism. And now 'Jaffna' would be carrying the theme of extremism to another extreme," said Sircar.

Mani Ratnam's Tamil film 'Kannathil Muttumital' with R. Madhavan in the lead is one of the notable films on the LTTE.

"But that was a love story set against the LTTE backdrop. My film is a political thriller," asserts Sircar.

Though not willing to divulge too many details on John's character, the director hinted that the actor would require a great deal of preparation for his part.

"John believes in 'Jaffna', as much as he believes in 'Vicky Donor'. That's why he stepped in to produce both the projects. He saw the full film 'Vicky Donor' and was completely kicked by it. He thinks Ayushmaan is a star in the making. I can't deny Ayushmaan has given an absolutely natural performance."

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I am still not a dancer, says Vidya Balan

New Delhi: If the success of 'The Dirty Picture' has revealed the 'sensual' side of Vidya Balan, it has also left her superstitious about the colour red. That's one reason she insisted on a red sari for her item number in 'Ferrari Ki Sawari'.

The 33-year-old, who became a rage after portraying the bold and beautiful Silk in 'The Dirty Picture', will be seen in a Lavani item number 'Mala jau dya na ghari' in Vidhu Vinod Chopra Productions' 'Ferrari Ki Sawari'.

According to sources, Vidya insisted on being featured in a red sari instead of the traditional green attire for the Lavani number.

Confirming the news, director Rajesh Mapuskar said: " 'The Dirty Picture' was such a huge hit that she feels that red is her lucky colour. The result is looking fantastic."

Vidya, who sizzled in a red hot sari in the first teaser of 'The Dirty Picture', feels people were unable to picture her sensual side, and so she was never offered an item number before.

"I don't think anyone could believe that I could be so sensual. I am still not a dancer. But I have begun to enjoy dancing more so," she said.

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I need to respect my body | Bipasha Basu

Mumbai: 'Jodi Breakers' has a song 'Bipasha' composed by Salim-Sulaiman, but actress Bipasha Basu had apprehensions before lending her name to the number.

"It's a song and it's a dance number where I have performed. I had apprehension before performing it but (director) Ashwini Chaudhary insisted that I should listen to the song. The composition by Salim-Sulaiman was excellent. I made everyone hear it - friends and family and they said they liked the song and that it will go waste if you don't perform in it," Bipasha told IANS.

"I have been very protective about my name. I don't even lend it to a character... This is the film I am really attached to. So for a nice film I didn't mind lending my name," she added.

'Jodi Breakers', which has released Friday, sees Bipasha romancing Madhavan.

Bipasha, who came out with a fitness DVD sometime back, says being fit is an added bonus.

"I believe I need to be healthy, I need to respect my body. I always preach and push people to love themselves and look good," she said adding that stress is taking a toll on people in their 30s.

"Stress related diseases are everywhere and the age group has come down to 30... it's not far when it will reach the 20s. I always believe when you look after yourself, the added bonus is that you look good," the 33-year-old said.

But at the same time, Bipasha eats well and added: "I am a big eater but I eat healthy. But I work out a lot. I am very blessed that I love to workout. When I go to the gym, I have the biggest smile on my face and people are jealous of me. Everybody is like, 'What is this? Whenever you come here you look so happy.' People think I am very motivational."

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Amitabh Bachchan discharged from hospital

Mumbai: Megastar Amitabh Bachchan was tonight discharged from hospital after a 12-day stay post his abdominal surgery. Bachchan, who has a history of stomach ailments, was operated on February 11 at the Seven Hills Hospital.

"The actor is doing much better now following which he has been discharged," a hospital source said.

Last night, Big B had tweeted, "Freedom !!! free from central line, free from all kites, free to sleep without precaution... Now await to be free from hospital!!."

He had complained of acute abdominal pain and there were chances of him undergoing a second operation. But later it was decided by the doctors that another surgery was not required as the 69-year-old actor was getting better.

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Oscars 2012 | It's 'The Artist' vs 'The Help'

Los Angeles: When the curtain rises on the Oscars this Sunday, nervous anticipation will, as usual, fill the theater at the world's top film awards, but this year movie fans can relax.

After years of trying to jazz up the Academy Awards with flashy, hip hosts, emcee Billy Crystal is returning for a ninth time in 2012, bringing what Oscar watchers say is a level of predictability and comfort to the show.

Frontrunner films -- silent romance The Artist, civil rights story The Help and drama The Descendants among them -- bring familiarity, comedy, love, humanity and a triumph of spirit that contrasts to recent years of darker, best film winners such as The Hurt Locker or No Country for Old Men.

This year could even see some history-making events in acting categories.

It seems Oscar voters took a lesson from last year's winner, feel-good film The King's Speech, or maybe from audiences who at box offices have favored escapist fare like Avatar over tales of woe and war amid the gloomy economy and world conflict.

Whatever the reason, voters at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences appear in sync with movie fans' appetite for entertainment, and there is no one better suited to celebrate Hollywood than Crystal, the 63-year-old comic and star of 1980s and 1990s films like When Harry Met Sally and City Slickers.

"Billy is the emcee version of comfort food, tasty and familiar, but not very spicy" said Entertainment Weekly movie writer Dave Karger.

Exactly what Crystal has in store on Oscar night is still anybody's guess. The producers and host are notoriously tight-lipped. But it's likely Crystal will start as he has in past years, comically editing himself into a video reel of scenes from major movies.

Co-producer Don Mischer gave one interview and was asked to compare Crystal to Ricky Gervais, the acerbic comedian who hosted the Golden Globes. Mischer said "Ricky is entertaining and all that, but I don't think the Oscars is a place for being mean-spirited, or taking real brutal shots at people."

So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the races.

Artist vs Help

Silent film The Artist, which is set in the period when Hollywood was moving into the talkies and tells of a fading star who finds redemption through love, heads into Sunday night as the clear frontrunner for the top prize, best film.

It has 10 nominations, overall, second only to 11 for Martin Scorsese's Hugo, the tale of a lost boy trying to find his way home that also is an homage to the early days of filmmaking.

But many nominations for Hugo are in technical categories like editing, opposed to major awards such as actors. The Artist, by contrast, has nods in top categories out of the 24 possible awards, including best actor for Jean Dujardin, supporting actress for Berenice Bejo and directing and writing for Michel Hazanavicius.

"It's fun, it's emotional, it's about the industry, and the artist, and all those things appeal to people," said David Poland, veteran Oscar watcher and founder of MovieCityNews.com. "This is the movie that made people feel good."

If Artist is the film to beat, The Help, a tale of black maids working for white southern families in the 1960s, is the movie to do it. It wooed academy members with a tale that ultimately is triumphant, and it has two frontrunners for acting Oscars. Actors are the biggest group of academy voters.

Help star Viola Davis, who plays a maid, is locked in a close battle with Meryl Streep as former British prime minister Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady. Davis won at the Screen Actors Guild Awards this year, and that has her tipped for Oscar victory over Streep, a two-time past winner and 17-time nominee.

"In a tight race, the academy goes to the performance that moved them more," Karger said. "Yes Meryl put in a great performance, but it's Viola Davis who has the emotional pull."

Michelle Williams has an outside chance with her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in My Week with Marilyn, but most pundits see her fading fast. The other nominees are newcomer Rooney Mara in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and Glenn Close in little-seen, gender-bending Albert Nobbs.

The other big boost for Help is in the supporting actress category where Octavia Spencer is widely expected to win over Artist star Berenice Bejo. If both Spencer and Davis take home the gold for The Help, it will be the first time in Oscar history two African American women in the same film have won.

Actors and Directors

Among actors, Artist star Jean Dujardin has been claiming most of the movie trophies this year for his performance as the film's lovable, fading star who turns his life around.

His stiffest competition comes from Mr. Hollywood, George Clooney, as a father trying to keep his family together at a time of crisis in The Descendants and from Brad Pitt as a math-minded baseball executive in Moneyball.

But as well-liked as Clooney is, Descendants has not worked the magic with the academy that Artist has, experts say, and Moneyball just isn't a real contender. Other best actor nominees are Gary Oldman in British drama Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and Demian Bichir in little seen A Better Life.

Supporting actor is the night's other shot at Oscar history. If Christopher Plummer, 82, or Max Von Sydow, 82, bring home the gold, either one will be the oldest Academy Award winner ever.

Finally, there is a close race in the director category where Hugo maker Scorsese and Artist dreamer Hazanavicius square off against Descendants helmsman Alexander Payne. Hazanavicius has the upper hand, having won the award from the Directors Guild of America earlier this year, but Scorsese is a perennial favorite and Payne is no slouch.

For clues to a winner, experts say, tune into early categories and if Artist begins to claim victory in technical areas like costume design or cinematography, it could portend a clean sweep for the silent film. If not, the race for best movie will remain up in the air until the final envelope is opened.

In 2006, gay romance Brokeback Mountain won early awards for writing, directing and music, but lost in acting categories and finally succumbed to race drama Crash for best film.

"It could be an interesting year," said Poland. "The other thing is, it could be exactly what everybody is expecting."

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Bollywood stays quiet over Saif-Sharma brawl

Mumbai: Two days after Saif Ali Khan's brawl with an NRI businessman, Bollywood celebrities chose to keep their opinions on the incident to themselves. Only composer Vishal Dadlani and jewellery designer Farah Khan Ali came out in support of the star.

"Let me put it this way. IF Saif was provoked or hit first, I think he did what many of us would do. By 'us', I mean myself and you guys," Dadlani of Vishal-Shekhar duo, posted on Twitter.

"Not condoning or defending violence, but everyone's allowed to be human once in a while, no? I think every right-thinking person should ask this question," he added.

Saif found himself in the midst of controversy Wednesday, when Iqbal Sharma, an Indian-origin businessman from South Africa, filed a police complaint against the actor for allegedly assaulting him at the Taj Mahal Hotel in Colaba here.

Saif and two of his friends -- Shakeel Ladak and Bilal Amrohi, were arrested Wednesday evening, and were later given bail. Saif too filed a case against Sharma, claiming that the latter abused his friends, and assaulted him.

Farah Khan Ali says 44-year-old Sharma's claim that Saif started the brawl is unbelievable.

"In the Saif-Sharma scuffle, the part I find fishy is where Sharma states Saif told him 'Do you know who I am.' Very unlike Saif," said Ali, daughter of veteran actor Sanjay Khan.

She says Saif is just being pinpointed due to his celebrity status.

"Celebrities are often targeted when they are out in public and usually in the company of their woman. Have been witness to one such incident years ago.

"There is something amiss in ths incident and I'm sure the facts will come out soon. It's very unlike Saif to hit an elderly man or provoke a fight," she added.

Saif was recently named the 10th Nawab of Pataudi.

Usually Bollywood is quick to react, but most of the film fraternity members chose to stay away from reacting to the controversy.

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Mehrunnisa | It's Rishi Kapoor vs Amitabh Bachchan

London: Bollywood veterans Amitabh Bachchan and Rishi Kapoor, who gave the hit film 'Amar Akbar Anthony' along with Vinod Khanna, are coming together in the forthcoming film 'Mehrunnisa'.

"We were to shoot for the film in April but because of Amitabh's health condition the shooting has been put off to October," Rishi said here last evening without divulging details of the film. Bachchan is currently recuperating in a Mumbai hospital post his abdominal surgery.

Rishi, 59, who was here to launch the 'India Week' at the London School of Economics and deliver his thoughts on the Indian film industry, said, "Hopefully we will have a new film under the R K banner as well."

"We, the Kapoor family, have been part of Indian Cinema for about 180 years. I am very proud that the Kapoors have been working in the films for four generations." Rachel Dwyer, Professor of Bollywood Cinema at the SOAS who discussed 'The Changing Landscape of Bollywood' with Rishi, said, "Bollywood is one of the few rivals to Hollywood and it is growing bigger and bigger."

Answering questions, Rishi said he was selected for the hit-film 'Bobby' by default. After 'Mera Naam Joker' failed at the box office, Raj Kapoor wanted to make a love story sans big stars and "that is why I was selected", he said.

"I owe my career to music directors of the era," he said.

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Vidya wants to play Indira Gandhi on screen

Mumbai: Starting off as a simple girl in 'Parineeta' to being a seductress in 'The Dirty Picture', actress Vidya Balan has portrayed diverse roles. She now wants to do something on the strong subject of extramarital affair.

"I want to do something where there is lots of drama as our lives are dramatic. May be do an 'Arth' or 'Silsila' kind of film, something on extra marital affair as wherever we go we get to hear about it," Vidya said.

'Arth', a 1982 film directed by Mahesh Bhatt, starring Shabana Azmi, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Smita Patil and Raj Kiran, was about his extramarital relationship.

Even Yash Chopra's 1981 film, 'Silsila' featuring Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bhaduri, Sanjeev Kumar and Rekha, revolved around the same topic.

Vidya even showed her interest in doing a film that would centre upon late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. "I may like to do a biopic on Indira Gandhi or something
like that," Vidya said.

However, she has now signed on a comic thriller 'Ghanchakkar', something that she has not tried her luck in yet, opposite Emraan Hashmi.

"Comedy is something I would like to explore. And speaking of other genres like action, its something I am not interested in," she said.

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Agent Vinod has potential to cross 100 crores | Saif Ali Khan

London: Saif Ali Khan, who has produced the upcoming spy thriller 'Agent Vinod' alongwith Dinesh Vijan, says the film has the potential to cross the 100 crore mark.

"The film will be released both in multiplexes and single screens and it has the potential to cross Rs 100 crore in revenue and I look forward to it," Saif, who was here to promote the film, told PTI. Produced at a cost of Rs 60 crores, the film was completed in 19 months. It will be released in 3,500 screens globally including 2,500 in India on March 23.

Saif, 41, who also plays the lead role in the film, said "it will give value for money," adding, "The film has been produced keeping Indian sensitives in mind."

Dinesh said, "It is a fun movie with a very Indian hero. The film has been shot keeping Indian sensibilities in mind. It is a realistic film but larger than life." Describing it as a fast-paced film, Dinesh said the film was shot in 12 countries including Riga, Latvia, Morocco, Russia, Uzbekistan, UK and India.

Saif, known for his roles in the cult movie 'Dil Chahta Hai', 'Parineeta' and 'Omkara', said he had gone to Vietnam for a couple of weeks to undergo training in action for the film.

He said he did all the stunts himself. "In India we do the stunts and we have good technicians in India. What we need is good writers." Saif described his girlfriend Kareena Kapoor, the heroine of the film as a "phenomenal actor. She is just made for the film."

The film is written and directed by Sriram Raghavan. Pritam Chakraborty has provided music for the film which will be distributed by Illuminati Films owned by Saif and Eros Entertainment.

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Jodis that don't work in Bollywood

New Delhi: Almost all the Bollywood producers claim to have the knack of recognising the 'real' talent but quite often they make fatal mistakes in casting non-compatible actors opposite each other. Here are the most awkward on-screen pairs which do not bring out the chemistry between the romantic leads.

1. Tusshar Kapoor-Esha Deol: Who would have thought that Esha Deol will end up in becoming a second grade heroine after she achieved Filmfare Best Debut award for 'Koi Mere Dil Se Pooche'. She has been paired against Tusshar Kapoor in many films including 'Kya Dil Ne Kaha', 'Kuch Toh Hai', 'Chura Liya Hai Tumne', and 'One, Two, Three' but the pair never clicked at the box office.

2. Shahid Kapoor-Vidya Balan: It's not been a long time when Vidya Balan used to be criticised for her weird dressing sense, and Shahid Kapoor's identity was of Kareena Kapoor's boyfriend. Both were paired rather pitched against each other in 'Kismat Konnection'. They never looked like hero-heroine, in fact their on-screen chemistry was more of a preacher-student than fellow actors.

3. Bipasha Basu-Ajay Devgn: Just imagine Bipasha Basu struggling to speak Hindi in a regional dialect, that too with a serious actor like Ajay Devgn. Yes, we are talking about Prakash Jha's film 'Apaharan', where she had played a medical student from Bihar. Not many could relate to Bipasha’s character despite 'Apharan' being a box office success.

4. Sanjay Dutt-Kajol: Tanuja Chandra's 'Dushman' received accolades from critics but the lead pair didn't appear great on the screen. The age difference between the two was quite apparent in each and every scene.

5. Bobby Deol-Any heroine: Recall Bobby's films from 'Barsaat' and 'Gupt' to 'Yamala Pagla Deewana' and 'Thank You', they either work due to Bobby or the heroine or due to some other factor, but never because of the chemistry between Bobby Deol and his heroine. However, the Punjabi lad has enjoyed the company of some of the most beautiful women of the Hindi film industry.

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Why didn't Imtiaz replace Nargis with Aditi Rao in 'Rockstar'?

New Delhi: When Aditi Rao Hydari, the heroine of 'London, Paris, New York', says that the Hindi film industry is image driven, it should be taken seriously, simply because the actress has risen to the stature of the lead heroine from a very small role in Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's 'Delhi 6'.

Actually, it was Aditi's character in Sudhir Mishra's 'Yeh Saali Zindagi' that changed the world for her. She was noticed by the critics as well as the viewers. However, that didn't stop Imtiaz Ali from making a mistake by casting Aditi Rao in a journalist's role while she could have done justice to Nargis Fakhri's role. Nargis not only proved to be a damp squib but she was also highly responsible for the film's relatively bad box office performance.

Now, she is all set to play a modern girl in Anu Menon's 'London, Paris, New York' but this chance has come after a long gap. The trained Bharatnatyam dancer and the grand niece of former Governor of Assam, has graduated from miniscule blink and miss roles to a proper lead role after a good struggle. Rao's lineage probably didn't assist her much in her endeavour.

This time, she will be helped by Ali Zafar who has given two back to back hits in 'Tere Bin Laden' and 'Mere Brother Ki Dulhan'. The songs of the film are slowly catching up and the lead actors look confident about the film's performance so this film can actually open a floodgate of opportunities for Aditi.

Seeing her performance in whatsoever limited number of chances she has got so far, Aditi seems to be staying long in the industry. It's probably the high time when established directors should start thinking of her in the major roles.

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Aamir Khan too busy to spend time with his wife

Mumbai: Aamir Khan has been really tied up in the last few weeks. He has been going all around the country shooting for his television show. So wife Kiran Rao took off alone to Bangalore for a few days to attend a wedding!

Bipasha Basu gets jitters to kiss on-screen

Bipasha Basu gets the jitters when it comes to doing a kissing scene on screen. The actress is apparently scared of locking lips with anyone and is uncomfortable doing the scene. Strange for a bindaas babe to get so unnerved by a smooch?

Amrita Puri catches a thief red-handed!

During the shooting of Blood Money in Cape Town, actress Amrita Puri caught a hotel housekeeper red-handed, stealing from her purse. Obviously the actress and the rest of the crew were shocked and moved out of the hotel immediately. This took an entire day, causing losses to the crew.

'We have not issued any cheque to Juhi Chawla'

Producer Rajiv Gupta of Narmada Films has stated that they do not owe the actress any money. Juhi had shot for his public service campaign, Beti Bachao Abhiyaan (Save The Girl Child), initiated by government of Madhya Pradesh.

He says, "We have not issued any cheque so the question of its bouncing doesn't arise." The actress had asked for a nominal fee with the payee name to be left blank. Juhi wanted to directly hand it over to an NGO she supports.

However, the cheque, which she later handed over to the Asian Cancer Foundation bounced.
We managed to get a copy of the cheque (No 005051, drawn on ICICI Bank, Four Bungalows, Andheri West branch) and found that the account is held by Dhansukh Jaini who was the line producer for the campaign in Mumbai, and not by Gupta's production house as reported.

Ranvir Shorey learns Bengali from wife Konkana

Ranvir Shorey is playing the character of a Bengali in Life Ki Toh Lag Gayi. To get the language right, he would call his wife Konkana Sensharma from the sets. Now even at home he can talk in Bangla and Konkona will feel more at home.

'Will You Marry Me' is a special film for Celina

Celina Jaitly who is part of the upcoming film Will You Marry Me is pretty emotional about the film. It was during the shoot of this movie in Dubai that her hotelier hubby Peter Haag had proposed to her. Celina who is expecting twins has one more reason to celebrate.

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Vivek Oberoi fights with journalist in Mathura

New Delhi: Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi has landed into controversy once again. While campaigning in Mathura along with Rashtriya Lok Dal leader Jayant Chaudhary, Vivek got into a fight with a mediaperson.

Apparently, Vivek lost his temper after the journalist asked him an uncomfortable question. Vivek grabbed the journalist by the throat.

Actor Vivek Oberoi is best remembered for his tiff with Salman Khan. Almost a decade back, Vivek held a press conference to disclose the details of his argument with Salman Khan over his then girl friend Aishwarya Rai. Since then, he has been grilled over the issue a number of times.

Vivek has been a part of films like Company, Saathiya, Masti, Omkara, Shootout at Lokhandwala and Kurbaan in past. In 2010, Vivek got married to Priyanka Alva, daughter of Karnataka minister Jeevaraj Alva.

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Sonakshi-Ranveer link-up reports upset Shatrughan Sinha

Mumbai: As the story goes, Shatrughan Sinha, the strict disciplinarian that he is, granted his daughter Sonakshi Sinha the permission to act in films, but with one condition. She was to never compromise her family's dignity.

So when recent media reports emerged linking Sonakshi to her Lootera-co-star Ranveer Singh, and even claiming that the two, who are currently in Kolkata shooting for the film, were going to take a day off on February 14 to celebrate Valentine's Day with each other, a livid Shatrughan called up his daughter and unit members asking for an explanation.

According to sources, Shatrughan even demanded that his daughter be sent home to Mumbai immediately.

It was only after a number of requests that the senior actor was pacified. According to a source, who is a close friend of the Sinhas, everyone is at their wit's end wondering who could be behind the rumour.

"Sonakshi is as friendly with Ranveer as any other co-star. She's wondering who's spreading these rumours of a romance when there's nothing between them."

When contacted, Lootera's producer Vikas Bahl said, "I can tell you this much. Sonakshi and Ranveer were shooting for the film on February 14 in Kolkata. There was no question of them taking the day off." "I can vouch for this, there's nothing between the two," he added.

Clearly miffed by the rumours and the anger it has caused Shatrughan, when asked about who could be behind the rumours, Sonakashi said, "How do I know where these rumours are coming from? Ranveer and I are co-stars. Nothing more."

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Why Tusshar Kapoor still needs to copy Jeetendra

New Delhi: Tusshar Kapoor's film career started in the year 2001 with 'Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai' opposite Kareena Kapoor. The fiulm became a success at the box office but Tusshar failed to carve a niche for himself. Occasional hits such as 'Shootout at Lokhanwala', 'Kya Kool Hai Hum' and 'The Dirty Picture' made him stay in the film business but it doesn't seem that he has come up with any remarkable performance than the 'Golmaal' series.

Probably this is the reason that Tusshar still needs to imitate his father's mannerism. The promos of his forthcoming film 'Chaar Din Ki Chandni' shows exactly this.

However he is not the first one to imitate Jeetendra. Many actors including Shah Rukh Khan, have aped Jeetendra's signature dance steps. Now Tusshar Kapoor will be seen copying his dad's dancing style in his forthcoming film 'Chaar Din Ki Chandni', though Tusshar confesses he was nervous about it.

"I was a bit nervous because I would do it in my style, as to get his style was a bit tough.

But then I thought - forget how he used to do it, and danced in my style. I was sure that I had to put in a lot of energy because he always invested a lot of energy," the 35-year-old said here at a promotional event held for the film.

"Even now, if I am performing and he is sitting and watching me, I get a little embarrassed, wondering what he is thinking of my performance," he added.

Critics and audiences may pan Tusshar's film, but the actor says his father never made negative comments about his movies.

"He likes everything about my films. He does not dislike anything about them because he is a father," said Tusshar.

The young Kapoor has teamed up with Kulraj Randhawa of 'Yamla Pagla Deewana' fame in 'Chaar Din Ki Chandni' that hits theatres March 9.

"He is very excited about this film because he likes the energy and it's his type of film - full of family drama and entertainment. I am sure he will like it, but he is not a critic. He will never make any negative comment about my films," he added.

Last seen in his sister's production venture 'The Dirty Picture', Tusshar is currently working in 'Kyaa Super Kool Hai Hum' and 'Shootout at Wadala'.

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John Abraham rash driving case adjourned

Mumbai: A Mumbai Sessions Court adjourned a rash and negligent driving case involving actor John Abraham to March 9.

On April 6, 2006 John's motorcycle had skidded and crashed into two youngsters.

In 2010, a Magistrate court had sentenced him to 15 days of simple imprisonment, which John challenged in the Sessions Court.

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Too old to play vampire - Twilight star Pattinson

Berlin: British actor Robert Pattinson said on Friday he may be too old to reprise his role as the ever-youthful vampire Edward Cullen in the 'Twilight' movies, should author Stephenie Meyer decide to add another novel to the series.

The 25-year-old's status as an A-list celebrity was underlined at the Berlin film festival where crowds of screaming girls gathered to catch a glimpse of the actor.

Pattinson, sporting shaved hair, was at the festival for the world premiere of 'Bel Ami', a costume drama set in late 19th century Paris based on Guy de Maupassant's novel about a poor man who sleeps and cheats his way to the top of society.

It marks a big step away from the 'Twilight' world which turned Pattinson into a star, and will go some way to showing how versatile he is as an actor.

"I'd be curious what Stephenie would write, but I just think I'd probably be too old," he told reporters after a screening of 'Bel Ami', which also features Uma Thurman and Christina Ricci. "I'm already too old. But yeah, it'd be kind of interesting."

The five-film 'Twilight' franchise is based on Meyer's best-selling four-novel series. The four movies out so far have amassed around $2.5 billion at the global box office, with the final chapter due to hit theatres in November.

In 'Bel Ami', Pattinson plays Georges Duroy, a poor ex-soldier who uses his looks and charm to seduce society beauties and convince his newspaper employers to give him important jobs.

Everywhere he turns he sees slights directed at him, and his ruthless desire for revenge, power and wealth means he turns insults to his advantage, no matter what the consequences.

That sensitivity struck a chord with Pattinson when he read the script a long time ago, he explained.

"If someone insulted me I would get 10 years of ambition out of it ... But I think I've grown up a little bit now. I'm not as horrible."

The part contrasts with that of the noble and faithful Cullen, which Pattinson said was what interested him.

"The character of Georges rarely comes up in any movies any more, because he's unrepentant," he said. "It was quite fun playing that and I don't think I'll ever have the opportunity to play him again."

Pattinson said he was amused by similarities between 19th century gossip columnists and today's celebrity-obsessed media.

Theatre director Declan Donnellan, directing his first movie, found the themes of Maupassant's novel still relevant today -- a 'corrupt' government, a complicit media and a controversial invasion of an Arab country.

"What I'm interested in is now," he said. "It's very good to use that world to talk about ourselves."

Pattinson hoped he could bring some of his fiercely loyal 'Twilight' fan base with him to see Bel Ami.
"The biggest disservice you can do to your audience is trying to repeat the same thing and get them to come just to get money or whatever.

"But if people are interested in what you are doing, then if you try and do interesting films on interesting subjects then I think it's great."

Asked what he thought of the fans waiting to see him outside the hotel where the press conference was held, he replied.

"The audience outside here is from everywhere, people came from Thailand and stand out in the cold there. I can't relate on any level, but it's definitely very nice."

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Battling to save my eyesight - Judi Dench

London: Veteran actress Dame Judi Dench, who has been diagnosed with macular degeneration which can lead to blindness, says she is battling to save her eyesight. The James Bond star, 77, said her sight is already so bad she cannot see faces in front of her and friends have to read scripts to her so she can learn her lines, reported Daily Mail.

"I can't read scripts any more because of the trouble with my eyes. And so somebody comes in and reads them to me, like telling me a story. It's usually my daughter or my agent or a friend and actually I like that, because I sit there and imagine the story in my mind."

"I've got what my mother had, macular degeneration, which you get when you get old. I had wet in one eye and dry in the other and they had to do these injections and I think it's arrested it. I hope so," Dench said.

The actress also said she is determined not to let the condition beat her and hopes recent treatment has stopped the progressive decline.

"The most distressing thing is in a restaurant in the evening I can't see the person I'm having dinner with. Actually, what I miss are people corpsing on stage."

"I know there might be something going on but sometimes I can't see it and that infuriates me as I think I'm really missing out on something. But you get used to it. I've got lenses and glasses and things and very bright light helps," Dench added.

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Friday Release - Gautham Menon to weave magic in 'Ek Deewana Tha'

New Delhi: The director of 'Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein', this is the best introduction one can give of Gautham Menon to the Hindi film fans. The master of romantic stories is returning to Hindi films after a span of ten years with 'Ek Deewana Tha'.

The story features a very ordinary 22 year old guy Sachin (Played by Prateik Babbar), an engineering graduate who wants to make a career in films. Sachin's middle class family background doesn't allow him to spend as per his wish but his problems start the moment he falls in love with a conventional South Indian Christian girl Jessie (Played by Amy Jackson).

He has so many issues to take care of, and he simply can't decide which one to tackle first. Sachin is in look out for a way to barge into one of the main film camps of Bollywood but that requires him to wait endlessly. Without any work, Sachin is inclined to do just one thing, and that is to patiently wait for Jessie to appear on the scene.

Elegant Jessy appears carefree but is actually under a lot of pressure from her family. There is absolutely no space for movies, parties and love in her life as her family doesn't approve of these things.

Jessie understands the differences between the social statuses of her and Sachin's background and thus she avoids falling in love with him.

This situation leads Sachin to just think of one question, of all the people why did he fall in love with Jessie?

Critics may have doubts about Prateik Babbar's acting skills but then they need to remember the year 2001 when Menon presented relatively small actors such as Madhavan, Saif Ali Khan and Dia Mirza in the lead roles. Probably, 'RHTDM' is the most memorable Dia Mirza film till date, so he is capable of weaving the magic with small stars also.

The music of 'Ek Deewana Tha' got publicized but for all the wrong reasons. However, the controversy over 'Hosanna' song has fetched the film some attention, plus 'Ek Deewana Tha' is releasing on a date when no other big Hindi film is releasing, which will ensure the film an average opening at least. Afterwards, it will entirely depend on the actors to carry forward the momentum.

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Friday release - Can '?' take Bollywood horror a notch up?

New Delhi: ‘?’ - A movie without a name or as it has ironically come to be called –‘ Question Mark’; grabbed the attention of the movie goers with their jarring trailer.

The horror buffs have seen the ‘Blair Witches’, the ‘Paranormal’ activities and the ‘grudges’. For a movie that seems to want to grab attention with an unconventional title and a ‘lets-reveal-nothing’ poster – the question is – What’s new?

The first look released on YouTube soared high on the hits it received and a movie that boasts of no starry cast, is all set to take on the Bollywood horror genre.

The trailer invariably gives a very ‘Blair Witch Project’ feel and the modus operandi of the ‘found footage’ is not entirely new to Bollywood. ‘Ragini MMS’ and Dibakar Banerjee’s stunning ‘Love Sex Aur Dhokha’ has already experimented with this space. Can we possibly expect ‘?’ to do anything different?

Producer Shailendra Singh hopes to hit the scores in the ‘found footage’ space for it not been utilized to its hilt in Bollywood. He made it clear that the movie has nothing to do with ‘The Blair Witch Project’. For Singh – inspirations can be galore – but it is all about giving something new through a real and a subtle narrative style in ‘?’. According to Singh, all horror movies have the same plot – but what will work for ‘?’ is the premise and the circumstance.

The main idea behind such a venture is multi pronged. The whole footage has been filmed on a Canon HD camera and one that anyone can afford. Thus, as Singh puts it – “If a common man has a story to tell, he can pick up a camera and say it.” No god fathers and no stars were required to get the directors – Yash and Allison - the break they needed. Good news for loads of wannabe film-makers.

The movie was left without a name on purpose for the story revolves around the search for the unknown. Unfortunately for the directors and the production house – the movie has come to be known as ‘Question Mark’ – there possibly cannot be another way to talk about a movie without a name.

So while the potential audience may consider such an attempt rather pretentious – the obscurity just may be the right curiosity generator that could pull in the people to the theatres.

Bollywood has graduated from its B grade horror flicks to the slick and the aptly scary. Horror is not a new genre for Bollywood – but a lot remains to be done in the space. While the cast and crew are hoping to score on the ‘realism’ front – Bollywood’s (potentially) third attempt at dealing with ‘Blair Witch’ or ‘Paranormal Activity’ type ‘found footage’ may lose ground for not offering anything startling and new. The film hits the screens on Friday 17th in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.
Whether ‘?’ will mange to thrill or fall flat – one must survive the weekend to know.

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Will 'Housefull 2' end Akshay Kumar's bad luck streak?

New Delhi: Just a couple of years back, Akshay Kumar ruled the box office with a series of hit films. With the success of Namastey London, Heyy Babyy, Bhool Bhulaiyaa and Welcome, Akshay became the king of comedy movies.

Though his high-profile film Tashan made under the Yash Raj Films flopped, his fans loved him as Bachchan Pandey. His next film Singh Is Kinng opposite Katrina Kaif also gained commercial success and earned him a Filmfare Best Actor nomination.

Akshay's most ambitious project Chandni Chowk to China, which was said to be inspired from his own journey to fame, turned out to be a box office disaster. Since then, Akshay has starred in many big budget projects like Kambakkht Ishq, Action Replayy, Tees Maar Khan, Patiala House, Thank You and Desi Boyz. However, all left him craving for the box office success.

Now, the trailer of his forthcoming film Housefull 2 is making waves. With some big names in the star cast of the film, the buzz was obvious. It is a sequel to Sajid Khan's Housefull, which was released in 2010. The star cast of the film includes Akshay Kumar, John Abraham, Asin Thottumkal, Jacqueline Fernandez, Shreyas Talpade, Shazahn Padamsee, Riteish Deshmukh, Zarine Khan Rishi Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor and Mithun Chakraborty.

Initial response to the film is great. After the phenomenal success of Hrithik Roshan's latest film Agneepath, the Housefull 2 team is also hoping a century for their film. According to the media reports, Sajid Khan sent a note to his team on the first day of the shoot saying 'Welcome to the biggest hit of your career'.

As sources claim, Akshay Kumar has complete faith in Sajid Khan's impeccable record and didn't even think twice before saying yes to the film.

Sajid Khan's previous films Heyy Babyy and Housefull grabbed eyeballs. Let's wait and watch whether he will be able to complete his hattrick with Housefull 2 or not. More than anyone else, Sajid's close friend Akshay needs a hit. The film will be released on April 5, 2012.

2012 is an important year for Akshay, as he will also be seen in Rowdy Rathore, Joker and Khiladi 786 this year. Shirish Kunder has made big claims about his 3D film Joker and Akshay's role.

All the best Akshay!

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Amitabh Bachchan to undergo another operation

Mumbai: Megastar Amitabh Bachchan on Thursday said he will have to undergo a second surgery and that his stay in the hospital will be prolonged. Bachchan, 69, who underwent an abdominal surgery on Saturday at the Seven Hills hospital, said on Twitter that he was required to make another visit to the operation theatre.

"Some more tests... more unpronounceable medication...and... another visit to the OT... operation theatre! Going to be a long stay," the actor tweeted, without giving details.

"I have no idea now how long this will take, but it does look as though it will be long... thank you for your prayers and love," he added.

Admitted to the hospital on Saturday, Bachchan, who has been bravely updating his fans on his medical condition, posted a brief entry on his blog last night.

"I seek forgiveness... I will not be detailing any more... Some fresh medical issues have come up, and I need to concentrate on the treatment now," he wrote.

Earlier on Wednesday, Bachchan had tweeted, "Cure can be distasteful till it begins to work... till that happens, your faith in it diminishes by the minute... then suddenly AIW : All Izzz Well...!!," he posted.

After his first surgery, the actor had tweeted he was in acute pain.

Bachchan has been battling a string of stomach ailments since his near fatal intestinal injury while filming a fight scene in 1982 movie "Coolie".

Recalling his days post the accident, Bachchan said to his fans: "How times change! During 1982 'Coolie' episode, I used to keep all your prayers under my pillow... now... on Twitter and Blog...!"

"There were many hundreds that prayed then in 1982, but were faceless and distant... now they are with face name and 'handle'...!!," he added.

Bachchan was gravely injured while filming a fight scene with co-actor Puneet Issar in "Coolie". He remained critically ill in the hospital for many months. The public response was tremendous with his fans conducting prayers at temples and queuing up outside the hospital.

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Amitabh Bachchan still in incredible pain

New Delhi: Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has revealed that he is still suffering from extreme pain after undergoing an abdominal surgery. "The morning has been nightmarish. There has been incredible pain in the region of the surgery, and the spasms so acute that they brought me to the level of a scream … which is saying a lot, for, my resistance to pain has been quite satisfactory in the past," Amitabh wrote on his bigb.bigadda.com Monday night.

"But the doctors were immediately summoned and after change in the dressings and pain killers, there seems to be now some semblance of relief. Not entirely, but entire enough," he added.

The 69-year-old is recuperating in Seven Hills Hospital after undergoing the surgery Saturday. However, the actor is likely to be discharged Tuesday and has thanked his fans for their good wishes.

"Your prayers and wishes are the healing balm on my troubled body. Your prayers and individual sacrifices you make for my well being truly demonstrates your feelings as a member of my family. And so I say a thank you again...," he said.

"I struggle with words and expressions to put out to express what I do sincerely believe in. But they come with great difficulty. How does one find something more than just a 'thank you'. The two words are so limited, yet so precise," Amitabh added.

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Kareena Kapoor planning to turn director?

Mumbai: If the buzz is to be believed, Kareena Kapoor may soon direct a film for Dharma Productions. In fact, producer Karan Johar might give her a project after her marriage to Saif Ali Khan.

Apparently, Bebo's involvement with behind-the-camera activities started with Agent Vinod. By the time she came to Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, she was not just curious about scripting, editing, mixing and background music, she was almost an assistant director on the sets.

A source from the production house says, "Kareena and Karan are like soul siblings. She discusses a lot of ideas with him. And she also got to be a part of the behind-the-scenes team in EMAET. It was during the shooting that Karan realised how great an aptitude Bebo has for cinema. In fact, she gave very crucial tips for revising and improving the script too."

The source also adds that all of Kareena's suggestions were in fact incorporated in the script. "Karan has asked her to get on board as a formal assistant and then eventually direct a film," the source adds.

Shakun Batra, the director of EMAET says, "There were at least five scenes where Kareena felt her character Riana was similar to Geet in Jab We Met. She marked those in the script and suggested how we could change them. Throughout the film's making, Kareena was full of sensible, intelligent suggestions."

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Bipasha's 'Jodi Breakers' in a legal soup

Mumbai: Jodi Breakers that is up for release soon seems to be in a legal soup. The latest is that Universal Pictures International France and Ors (a co-producer of Heartbreakers and a part of American entertainment company NBC Universal Inc) has filed a case against the Jodi Breakers producers in the Bombay High Court for infringement of copyright and asked for Rs 50 crore as a compensation.

We told you first that the Bipasha Basu and R Madhavan starrer is allegedly inspired from the French film starring Romain Duris and Venessa Paradis (HitList, January 9).

We also reported that Insia Dariwala, a relatively new writer-filmmaker claimed to be the original owner of the idea behind the film (HitList, January 12). She had even registered a complaint with the Film Writers Association.

Our source reveals, "A lot of A-lister Bollywood producers including Karan Johar were interested to buy the rights of the French film. The negotiations were on. The producers were then aghast to see the promos of Jodi Breakers, the plot of which is strikingly similar to their film. It's a huge loss for them and they decided to take serious action against the Bollywood producers for plagiarism."

The source adds, "The French producers have filed the case against five people the producer, Prasar Visions Pvt Ltd, director Ashwini Chaudhary, the writer, the processing lab and Dariwala who claimed that the producers stole her idea. The first hearing took place on February 10 and today is the second hearing."

The Neolegal Associates (a leading intellectual property firm which handles many such litigation for Hollywood studios) represents the Heartbreaker producer.

Xerxes Ranina, the founding partner says, "The matter is subjudice. I won't be able to comment on the specifics of the case other than the fact that the case has been filed in the Bombay High Court." The director of Jodi Breakers remained unavailable for comment.

Bollywood copies that got caught

Shoebite: The Hollywood studio, Twentieth Century Fox, filed a case against UTV in the Delhi High Court for making a film, Shoebite (earlier titled Johnny Mastana) based on Manoj Night Shyamalan's script, Labour of Love.

Banda Yeh Bindaas Hai: Producer Ravi Chopra's Banda Yeh Bindaas Hai was served with a legal notice in 2009 by Twentieth Century Fox which charged that the movie blatantly plagiarised their comedy My Cousin Vinny.

Knock Out: Twentieth Century Fox had sought a stay on the film's release saying Knock Out was copied from its film Phone Booth. The makers of the film agreed to pay R 1.5 crore in return.
Partner: Partner which is inspired from the Hollywood film Hitch had an out of court settlement with Sony Pictures.

Guzaarish: Scriptwriter Akhil Rajendra Dwivedi sued filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali for R 2 crore alleging that the director used his script without informing him.

Unofficial copies that got away

Murder 2 (copied from Chaser)

Killer (Collateral)

Kaante (Reservoir Dogs)

Satte Pe Satta (Seven Brides for Seven Brothers)

Sarkar part 1 and 2 (The Godfather)

Murder (Unfaithful)

Ghulam (On the Water Front)

Sholay (Once Upon a Time in the West)

Dil Hain Ke Manta Nahin (It Happened One Night)

Hum Tum (When Harry Met Sally)

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Shah Rukh Khan denies tiff with Juhi Chawla

Mumbai: Brushing aside rumours of a tiff between him and actress Juhi Chawla, superstar Shah Rukh Khan says it is the media that creates such pieces and then embarrasses a celebrity with questions about them.

"There is so much tabloidism in the work we do and the unfortunate bit is that some people write it and start believing in it. Then to come back and ask us about something that does not exist is a little odd and embarrassing for us because it did not exist in the first place," the 46-year-old said at an event here.

"It's like the smallest particle of atom they are still trying to figure out. So, when you ask this to me and Juhi, all of us get a little awkward about why you are asking this, this has never been a problem," he added.

Recalling his initial days in the industry, Shah Rukh said that Juhi's family always made him feel at home.

"When I was new in the film industry, Juhi, her mother, her brother and her whole family looked after me and they have been very kind to me. We are very close friends," said the superstar.

"I have told her never to leave my side, even if I misbehave publicly and she has said that even if I misbehave and I am ill-mannered, she will still be friends," said Shah Rukh who has done films like 'Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman', 'Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani', 'Yes Boss' and 'Duplicate' with Juhi.

Shah Rukh is currently busy shooting for Yash Raj's untitled next opposite Katrina Kaif. He is also co-producing 'Student of Ther Year' with Karan Johar.

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Vidya Balan is a brave actress - Sujoy Ghosh

Mumbai: Filmmaker Sujoy Ghosh talks about the importance of Kolkata in 'Kahaani' and how Vidya Balan's success rate will effect his film's fortunes

Has The Dirty Picture's success been a game-changer for Kahaani?

It definitely ensures me a good opening but I am not sure if it is a game-changer because this film will have to speak for itself. But yes, after Paa, Ishqiya, No One Killed Jessica and now The Dirty Picture, Vidya has created a stamp of quality, which is very good.

Why is Kahaani only your fourth film since Jhankaar Beats in 2003?

Nobody wants to give me money to make a film. That's why I have to write a film, go out, beg for money and then make one. I spent around two years developing Kahaani's story and we shot it in 52 days. It was the most challenging movie I have ever made. It was a movie that only Vidya and I believed in.

Why was it such a challenge?

I discussed the basic idea with Vidya. Initially it wasn't working out but we finally cracked it and I wrote the story. Then Aladin flopped and I got many 'Nos'. But I could only make it because she fully supported me. It was a challenge because on paper it had a huge budget. We knew we couldn't make it with a big budget as we could not take a solo Vidya Balan to that level. We had to be practical. So we went to Kolkata, and shot.

You wrote the film with Vidya in mind?

Yes, it was first Vidya, then Kahaani. I always wanted to work with her. It is a story about a woman who is pushed into an alien environment where she has to survive, protect her child, look for her husband and find the truth. The film is about the maternal instinct.

What was Vidya Balan's reaction when you told her that she had to be pregnant throughout the film?

She is a very brave actress and was quite excited. The story demanded a pregnant protagonist. For an actress, it doesn't matter whether she is playing a glamorous role or a pregnant woman. That's her job.

How did she prepare for the role?

I left everything to Vidya. I never tell actors how to act. That is what they are supposed to bring to the table. Vidya's sister was pregnant at that point of time, so that helped her with the nuances of pregnancy.

Why have you set the film in Kolkata?

In Kahaani, there are two heroines - Vidya and Kolkata. It is a very vibrant city, which really helps in a thriller. I know what even one alley will add to the film. Vidya's first movie was a Bengali film, so she is also close to Kolkata. She knew most of the technicians on the sets of Kahaani.

Most of the shots in the film are in crowded locales. How difficult was it to manage the crowds?

It was very difficult. Vidya was my crowd controller. Whenever the crowd got out of hand, we would ask her to talk to them in Bengali. There was no point in going to Kolkata and shooting in a room. Plus, the missing husband is out there in Kolkata, so we had to shoot outside.

Why not take a familiar face to play the husband?

This film is a journey of this woman, so the husband doesn't have a lot of footage. Normally, if you take a known actor or a big face, it works against you in such a film.

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Mamata Banerjee to write lyrics for a film?

Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who is also an acknowledged painter and poet, is now turning lyricist for a film on girl trafficking by cinestar-turned-MLA Chiranjit.

The popular actor, who won the last Assembly election on a Trinamool Congress ticket, said 'Didi' had expressed readiness to pen the lyrics for one of the songs of the film. "Let's see how things progress," Chiranjit told PTI.

Asked what made him approach the Trinamool Congress chief as the lyricist, Chiranjit, son of late cartoonist Sailo Chakraborty, said, "Didi has tremendous ability to connect with the masses through her words... And also she has an aesthetic sense reflected in her sketches, painting and poems."

The actor revealed that Mamata had also encouraged him to write the script which is based on a real life story he learnt from people in Barasat, his constituency in the outskirts of Kolkata.

Having directed the film 'Bhoy' in 1996, in which he acted too, Chiranjit said he was now in the process of writing the script for his second directorial.

The MLA said it would be a film within a film where a moviemaker while documenting the plight of a trafficked girl becomes involved after vainly trying to remain a detached commentator.
Chiranjit hinted that he would himself act in the role of the documentary filmmaker and did not wish to reveal the rest of the cast.

A matinee idol in the 80s, Chiranjit said his stint as an MLA helped him discover the squalid condition common people lived in at Barasat and elsewhere. "Children in my constituency don't go to school, but their parents have cable TV connection in their modest homes where they watch gyrations of a Bollywood/Tollywood star," he said at the launch of a compilation of short stories by Reshmi Mitra, film journalist-turned director of action flick 'Macho Mastana'.

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Let music do the talking this Valentine's Day

New Delhi: Want to woo your Valentine? Try dedicating a romantic song to him or her in filmy style. IANS makes it a little easier for you to pick a love song and make your Valentine feel special.

Kuch to hua hai: The song from the movie 'Kal Ho Naa Ho' has a magical feel that leaves you humming the tune for days. Beautifully sung by Alka Yagnik and Shaan and shot with Saif Ali Khan and bubbly Preity Zinta on the streets of New York, the lively and appealing number is an apt song for those smitten by the love bug.

Cheeni kum: The refreshing love song in the sugary sweet voice of Shreya Ghoshal is all about two people of very different age groups, played by Amitabh Bachchan and Tabu, falling for each other. It conveys that romance is not limited by age.

Jashn-E-Bahaara: It has a period feel thanks to the theme of the movie 'Jodhaa Akbar', but the song is likeable. The lyrics especially strike a chord with your heartstrings. Soulfully sung by Javed Ali, it not only portrays the grand and ethnic romance of the Mughal era but also brings in the cultural feel. The song successfully manages to take you back to that royal era.
Tera hone laga hun: Sung by Pakistani vocalist Atif Aslam, the song is about how one feels when one falls in love. This is a youngsters' favourite.

Mudi mudi: The joy of being in love is expressed through the song and Shilpa Rao's voice adds a distinct flavour to it. Featuring Vidya Balan and Abhishek Bachchan from the movie 'Paa', it highlights the fact that love happens and it cannot be planned.

Dil to baccha hai ji: The 'Ishqiya' song expresses the helplessness of an old man, played by Naseeruddin Shah, who can't stop his heart from beating faster for a younger woman, Vidya Balan. Lovely lyrics and veteran singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan's expressive voice have made it one of the sought after songs. Different yet poetic, it was appreciated by the masses.

Tere mast mast do nain: Superstar Salman Khan and first timer Sonakshi Sinha created magic on screen with this simple and innocent love track. Again sung by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, it garnered huge appreciation and was one of the high points of the hit movie 'Dabangg'.

Haal-e-dil: All the songs from 'Murder 2' have been a hit. But this one stood out for rhyming lyrics, outstanding music composition and a beautiful backdrop - all that gives it a dreamy appeal. Sung by Harshit Saxena, it also boasted of freshness and Goan flavour.

Teri meri: A melodious duet by Shreya Ghoshal and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan enjoyed top position on the charts. Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor's chemistry added zing to the song. A typical Bollywood romantic number in the wind and rain and not to forget the flowing chiffon sari of the leading lady, it brought back the feel of an old time love song.

Ishq Sufiyana: A soulful Sufi song featuring the beautiful Vidya Balan and Emraan Hashmi, it is about the heavenly connection between god and love. Sung by Kamaal Khan, the love song manages to take you to that peaceful zone of being in pure love.

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Dad's surgery went off smoothly - Abhishek

Mumbai: Megastar Amitabh Bachchan's scheduled abdominal surgery went off smoothly Saturday morning and he is now resting in the hospital room, says his son, actor Abhishek Bachchan.

"The abdominal pain was due to the pain that had started during the injury that he (Amitabh Bachchan) had got during 'Coolie' (in 1982). He is operated now and the surgery went on for two to three hours. It has gone smoothly," Abhishek told reporters at the SevenHills Hospital here.

"He has been shifted to the ward and is out of the operation theater. It was successful, and he has been kept under observation by the doctors," added the junior Bachchan.

The 69-year-old veteran was happy and cheerful before being wheeled into the operation theater in the morning, doctors attending on him said.

He was wheeled in around 9 a.m.-9:30 a.m for the surgery, and his family was with him.

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My abdominal surgery a legacy of 'Coolie' accident - Big B

New Delhi, Feb 11 (PTI) Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who will be undergoing a minor abdominal surgery tomorrow, says that the problem is a legacy of the accident during 'Coolie'. The 69-year-old actor suffered a near fatal intestinal injury on July 26, 1982 while filming a fight scene for 'Coolie' with co-star Puneet Issar. He remained in hospital for many months at that time.

Bachchan was again admitted to hospital in 2005 and underwent bowel surgery.

"Let me just say that the issue and the problem is a legacy of the past in particular the accident of 1982 and Coolie. Subsequent disturbances have all and shall emanate from it. So I should learn to bear it now, feel the compulsion of the doctors to perform what they need to and leave myself and my body at their mercy," Bachchan wrote on his blog.

The actor also said that the CT scan has revealed some new problems and he is taking everything in good spirit.

"The CT Scan has brought up some new discoveries, other than what I am going in for, and that is depressing, but if we do not have will to fight it out, you may as well, put your hands up and submit. Taking it all one at a time shall hopefully resolve the issues, but waiting is what the doctors advise," he added.

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Ten things you didn't know about 'Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu'

New Delhi: The Imran Khan-Kareena Kapoor starrer 'Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu' is all set to hit the screens this Friday. We have brought to you ten interesting facts about the film.

1. Imran Khan clicked photographs of Kareena Kapoor from his phone which were later used for the promotional activities.

2. The film was originally scheduled to be released on October 7, 2011 but later the date changed to February 10, 2012.

3. It was previously titled as 'Short Term Shaadi'.

4. Imran Khan is working second time with Karan Johar's Dharma Productions. They had earlier worked in 'I Hate Luv Storys'.

5. The music of the film is given by Amit Trivedi of 'Dev D' fame. This time he has come up with trendy numbers unlike his songs in 'Dev D' and 'Wake Up Sid'.

6. The makers of 'Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu' have already recovered Rs 21 crore. Rs 15 crore by selling satellite rights and Rs 6 crore from music.

7. Imran Khan shared a video travelogue during the promotional drive of 'Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu' which captured the essence of the film by showcasing the important moments of the promotional tour.

8. The producer of the film Karan Johar says that 'Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu' is inspired by Woody Allen's style of filmmaking.

9. This is the directorial debut of Shakun Batra. He was the second assistant director in 'Jaane Tu…Ya Jaane Na' and the first assistant director in 'Rock On'.

10. Karan Johar has constantly denied that 'Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu' is not an adaptation of 'What Happens in Vegas'.

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Friday Release: Unconditional love in 'War Horse'

New Delhi: One of the masters of the craft of filmmaking Steven Spielberg's new film 'War Horse' has the World War 1 as its backdrop. The film is based on the novel written by Michael Morpurgo which was first published in the United Kingdom in the year 1982.

The main star cast of the film includes David Thewlis, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jeremy Irvine and Peter Mullan. Their fine performances have won the film Six Academy Award nominations.

Steven Spielberg throws some light on the film," It was discovered for me by Kathy Kennedy, who had already experienced it in the West End in London and told me about it and how moved she was by the play. Then Stacey [Snider], the head of my company, DreamWorks, flew over and saw it without me. And she concurred with Kathy about how powerful a story it was. The puppets are magnificent on stage; the puppeteers are in a way the stars of the show. But we knew that if we were going to tell the story, it was going be with real horses, not with maquettes or marionettes. So then we preemptively made a bid to buy it even before I saw it, just based on the story, which really appealed to me."

The film is about a young man Albert (Jeremy Irvine) who has to take part in the World War after his horse Joey was sold to the cavalry.

Spielberg clarifies the scenario,"'War Horse' says a lot about courage; the courage of this boy and what he endures and what he overcomes to achieve what he needs and not just for himself but also for his best friend, his horse Joey. It's also about the courage and the tenacity of this extraordinary animal. The theme of courage kept coming back and back from the play, from Michael Morpurgo's book and from Lee Hall and Richard Curtis' screenplay. That was the underlying subliminal theme that I think informs every frame of 'War Horse'."

'War Horse' is all set to be released in India on February 10 that is today.

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Friday Release - 'LOL', Miley Cyrus comes of age

New Delhi: Gone are the days when Miley Cyrus was your cute little girl. She has grown up enough to play a typical American adult. Her latest film ‘LOL: Laughing Out Loud’ will put her acting skills to test again.

The film is the Hollywood remake of the 2008 French film by the same name. It features Miley Cyrus, Demi Moore, Ashley Greene and Adam Sevani in pivotal roles.

The film is directed by Lisa Azuelos and Karim Ainouz. It is scheduled for a February 10 release in India.

The basic story is about a 15 year old girl Lola (Miley Cyrus) who gets dumped by her boyfriend. The girl wants to take revenge and thus sets her eyes on the boy's best friend. She also starts to experiment with sex and drugs while her 40 year old mother (Demi Moore) is still not out of the trauma of her divorce.

'LOL' showcases the world of a typical American teenager which is surrounded by YouTube, Facebook and several other social networking mediums. This world may look very happening and crazy from outside but inside it is creating an army of lonely and unfulfilled people.

The world has changed so fast and so much that the generation gap and communication gap have started to kill the real essence of the relationships.

Miley Cyrus is not a new name for the big screen lovers. This is her ninth film which is supposed to target her niche audience base of casual American teenagers.

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Star of the day - Saif Ali Khan

New Delhi: Born in 1970, Saif Ali Khan got his first break in films at the age of 22 but started earning acknowledgments only after 2001 when Farhan Akhtar's 'Dil Chahta Hai' hit the screens. 'Kal Ho Na Ho' and 'Ek Hasina Thi' released in 2003 and 2004 rose his stature to B+ actors but a major twist in his career came in 2004 when Saif got his first solo hit 'Hum Tum'.

'Parineeta' and 'Being Cyrus' came in the same year and the audiences got a chance to explore his acting limits. His character in 'Being Cyrus' had several layers to it; moreover it had a Parsi background which was rarely shown in a bad light before this film. He passed the test with flying colours.

Vishal Bharadwaj's 'Omkara' changed the entire scenario for Junior Pataudi. Suddenly, Saif became the raw macho man of the Indian cinema. His portrayal of Langda Tyagi was not only true to the story but was also very close to the real gangsters.

'Race' and 'Love Aaj Kal' maintained his position among top Bollywood actors and now he is coming in Sriram Raghavan's 'Agent Vinod'.

The promos of 'Agent Vinod' are out and they look promising. Saif Ali Khan's quintessential urban looks completely suits the character.

Lately he has grown as an actor who can play both the urban and semi urban roles with ease. 'Love Aaj Kal' was a good example of this. His character Jai Vardhan Singh was suave but the young Veer Singh was rustic in appeal.

Despite lacking good height and typical Bollywood looks, Saif has carved a niche for himself. It took him some years to reach to that position but slowly and steadily he has achieved a distinct place in the film industry. He is star of the day.

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